Darcy blinked as she took it all in. It was certainly a lot of information to process, but more than that, it had certainly been a trying few years for Loki. He and Thor had lost their immediate family. Frigga, Odin and even Hela in a weird, twisted way. They lost their home. Then they had to deal with everything Thanos. It was one crisis after another. It sounded so exhausting that her heart went out to him. Everyone had been through the wringer in the last several years. Loki was no different.
Quietly, she reached out and placed her hand on his arm. She gave it a soft squeeze to offer her comfort and empathy. "You've really been through it," she remarked lightly. She patted his arm before withdrawing her hand to give him space. She went for levity as she joked, "Now you're stuck being my tour guide."
Blue-green eyes flicked to her hand, then up to her. Puzzled for a moment, as outside of his own people he wasn't shown much Empathy. Even what little he'd been shown among his people was rare.
"I've wandered some, but when I return it is always to New Asgard. When I am around, I am expected to have official duties. I am still a Prince, even if Asgard proper is no more." And he was rightful king of Jotunheim, for what little that mattered. "I've had two reactions when I've met people--those who are wary, and those who are in awe."
It would not be a very long drive, before they were arriving on the outskirts. The scenery was beautiful, and in the distance on the coast, the Statesman could be made out easily. Framing the picturesque village that had become a blend of ancient and new, while maintaining a classic Scandinavian flair and style.
"I'm looking forward to actually seeing New Asgard. Everything I've seen online is breathtaking," she replied. Even the scenery outside was already gorgeous. Darcy wanted to explore it all and take so many pictures. She let up a dreamy sigh of admiration. As they got closer, she sat up straighter in her seat. Her lips parted in awe as she drank it all in. She saw the Statesman and could hardly believe she would be staying on it.
"So people are either cautious or awed by you. Which do you prefer?" she asked. Darcy didn't take her eyes off the sight before her. "What other duties do you have besides showing the new kid around?"
"Generally the awe, as a preference. They tend to view me more favorably, and it does get tiresome to be reminded of my past mistakes when I am trying to grow past them. The most interesting people are often a combination of both." Loki answered with a wry smile.
"I sit on, and am part of the King's council. I've had my services sought out by a few other governments, though they often are wary of me as well. On a personal level I work at preserving history."
"Yeah, that can be a real bummer," she agreed. Darcy thought back to all her past mistakes. It would be maddening if people held it against her. It made her resolve even more firmly to give Loki a second chance. He deserved it. He was already intriguing her thus far. Their conversation wasn't like anything she expected. "Preserving history?" she repeated. "That sounds really interesting! What's that like?"
They turned in to the main road of New Asgard. The leaves had changed here. It made it all look so picturesque. There was a chill in the air that would make Darcy wish she had her coat.
"It's a bit hard to explain." What Loki really meant was ferreting out secrets, and being a 'living resource' at times for how things had been in the olden times. Heimdall was the better resource for that, given he saw everything. But Loki enjoyed stories, and what was History but another story?
As they passed people it was clear the city was a blend of old and new. Even the styles had started to reflect the blending of Asgard and Midgard, though there was still a marked leaning towards Midgardian styles. Darcy would have no trouble finding a fall and winter wardrobe if she wanted, provided she could afford it.
The car itself drove up to the Statesman, where the entry ramp was permanently extended down now. Asgardian designs had been painted around it, runic designs interspersed with nature motifs. As soon as the car stopped, and Loki was out, then it was clear their presence was known. A male was coming down the ship's gangplank towards them, wearing what was meant to be some kind of livery-uniform, over a mix of Asgardian and Midgardian clothing. He resembled a more lanky version of Thor with a longer-beard that was braided, as was his hair.
"Bjarte" Loki greeted as he moved around to Darcy's door, while the other man moved to the trunk for Darcy's suitcase. "Please take Dr Lewis's things to the Gríðrstofa suite." She'd be getting a short tour first, then shown to where she'd be staying.
Darcy loved the blend of the old and the new. She knew she could spend hours just wandering and studying the different details to this place. There was just so much to take in. Everywhere she looked, there was something else that caught her eye. As they got closer to the Statesman, she was nearly vibrating with excitement to hop out of the car to start exploring. As soon as they stopped, she was out and breathing the fresh, crisp air. She shivered at the chill that hung in the air, but she was in a state of constant motion which would hopefully keep her warm.
"Hi!" she greeted the man with a cheery wave. He took her luggage and greeted her with a nod. "How do you say that again?" she asked to Loki. She was still trying to wrap her tongue around the Norse language. "Slowly, please, so I can get it right. Grio-what? What does it mean?"
She was a flurry of questions and energy. Her curiosity was insatiable.
"Gríðrstofa." Loki repeated, then more slowly "Greed'r stohfah." Emphasizing the pronunciation. "Considering Their Majesty picked it for you, I suspect in this instance the meaning is the 'Vehemence or Zeal, and room'." Given her energy so far.
"Du alt annet enn vibrerer som en kolibri, so I think it fits rather well."
"Gríðrstofa," she repeated slowly in the way that he taught her. It sat a little clumsily on her tongue, but she liked the way it came out. Her brows shot up to hear that the room had been specifically chosen for her by the King instead of just randomly assigned. She brightened to hear the translation because wasn't wrong. She had plenty of zeal for life. She was a passionate person, full of energy. His next phrase caused her to tilt her head. curiously. "What does that mean?" she wondered. She playfully bumped her shoulder against his. "Come on, it's no fair if you say things that I can't understand!"
There was mischief in the grin and in blue-green eyes. "Now whoever said I'd play fair?" Was he actually teasing her? If nothing else, Darcy must clearly amuse him.
"We'll start with a general tour of the Statesman. That will end at your room, where you'll have a bit of time to settle in before there's an official state-dinner. Normally Their Majesty isn't nearly so formal, but you're not the only guest staying with us and we've only been waiting on your arrival. Wear something very nice, but not scandalous--if you'd wear it on the red carpet, but be called 'classy' or 'elegant' it would probably work." Giving her the general information, then a look up and down as if assessing.
"Then again, if you have no such outfit, we can provide you with one."
Oh, she liked that a lot. His mischievous teasing was definitely something she was on board with. It was different than what she would have expected from him, given their history, but she liked it. He'd turned a new leaf, and she was curious to finally get to know him.
"Ooh, like something pretty and Asgardian?" she asked hopefully. Darcy hadn't packed too many fine clothes for special occasions. She hadn't thought she needed it. Her wardrobe was mostly casual clothes or durable clothes for sightseeing and hiking. She let Loki lead the way to give the tour. "Who else is going to be at this fancy dinner? Anyone I know?"
He was the God of Mischief after all. While Loki might not have turned over a new leaf fully, he wasn't quite as young or angry as he had been a decade ago. Things had affected him, he'd grown, and was ever changing.
"We'd planned to go with Midgardian business and evening-wear as the theme, but as you can see--" Gesturing around them before starting to lead her up into the Statesman. "The two styles have been blending. Mostly because what Asgardian clothing we have has been literally whatever was packed in a hurry, or off our backs." Inside the ship was impressive--this was clearly the main hub of information and activity.
"Their Majesty King Valkyrie will be there, and you'll be introduced to Heimdall. He guarded our borders and had stewardship over the Bifrost for centuries." Just in case she had no idea who Heimdall was, and didn't know her Norse myths. "Beyond that, I don't think it likely. Some visiting dignitaries from Norway, Finland, Sweden currently, as well as a few other scientists."
"I've been meaning to talk with Heimdall and pick his brain if he's up for it!" she said eagerly. The tour went well though Darcy was distracted every so often. She'd stop to study little details that caught her attention. By the time they got to her room, she was ready for a brief respite before the fancy dinner. As promised, a dress was sent to her to wear, and she was immediately in love. It was purple with golden accents to it. It clung to her curves without making her audacious or scandalous. She loved the way it swished at her feet. She pinned half of her hair up while the rest fell in curls about her shoulders.
Sure enough, Loki escorted her to dinner, and they're seated together. She was relieved by that which surprised her. She was enjoying his company. He translated for her and explained the different courses. Darcy interjected into the conversation here and there, but mostly, she was happy to take it all in. She sipped at her wine and sighed.
"This wine is fantastic," she murmured to her companion. "Is it made around here?"
She could now, hopefully, find her way around the Statesman's main areas. The Gríðrstofa suite was 4 rooms; a main living area, a small office area, a bedroom, and the bathroom. All done in shades of warm browns and blue. Lush knitted blankets (and one fur throw), warm and cozy furniture, and some of the sterility of a spaceship modified by Midgardian charm.
Loki was in all black, with a green pocket-scarf and tie, with only accents of gold at the tiepin and cuffs. It made for a striking match with Darcy, as he escorted her and presented her formally to the King and other dignitaries. She was particularly introduced to Heimdall, who was in shades of brown and gold. Most everyone spoke some English, and tried to converse with her in it. If a bit clumsily at times.
The courses were all hearty and filling. Fish was prominent, as were root vegetables and a roast of some kind. Mead was also served, as was plain water for those interested. It was very quickly seen why, in the myths, Loki was 'tolerated'--he was fun at parties.
"I believe it's a recreation of an old recipe, and they're hoping we'll tell them how accurate it is or not."
They did make a startlingly striking couple. With Loki as her escort, it nearly did look as though they were together. She liked his outfit. The all black looked good on him, and she liked the dash of green. She'd told him so when she first saw him in her open, unabashed way of speaking. Darcy was proud of herself for keeping her cool as she met Heimdall and the other dignitaries. She was geeking out with excitement on the inside. Especially over the King since Valkyrie was a bonafide badass.
She thought she was doing a pretty good job of behaving herself. The food was delicious as the courses were brought out. She loved the fish and the vegetables. It was all so filling and deliciously spiced, but she didn't feel heavy and weighed down from all the food.
Her cheeks were a little flushed from her drink. She was leaning in slightly towards Loki as they conversed. "Is it accurate?" she asked with a raised brow. Naturally, she didn't know the difference, but she was curious if it was.
He'd given a nod, as if to say of course he looked good--agreeing with her non-verbally. Then they'd had introductions and Loki was busy being translator and official escort. Heimdall was pleased to meet Darcy, having seen her and Jane's interactions before. He seemed to appreciate that she put on no airs, and amused by her struggle to be restrained.
"Guess." Loki said, with that grin again. "Why would I give you the easy answers? It's more fun to leave you guessing." There was that mischief again.
"I think you just like being a tease," Darcy accused playfully. She took another sip of her drink and pretended that she was some kind of connoisseur. She wasn't sure she could taste all the different notes to it, but she knew she could taste the sweetness and the little bites of spice. "It makes me feel like I'm tasting something out of this world, so I'm going to say it's pretty close to accurate but not exactly."
She didn't think that they'd be able to recreate Asgardian recipes one hundred percent with earthly ingredients. They'd probably come close, but it likely still missed the mark. "Sorry you're stuck being my babysitter and translator tonight, but I appreciate it. I'm having a really good time."
"Sometimes." Loki confirmed about his being a tease. Then he was studying her as she pretended she was a connoisseur. Chuckling with her declaration, before lowering his voice to a whisper. "It is entirely Earthly and modern, as wine wasn't common in this region until much later."
As for the other comment, Loki hmm'd and took a drink of some of his own wine. "There are worse duties I could have by far. You could hold a grudge, for example."
Darcy let out a soft sparkle of laughter at his confirmation. At least he was honest. The drink was making her cheeks rose. She was less nervous about embarrassing herself at the dinner. She leaned in closer to him as he told her the secret, it tickled her. She enjoyed another sip, but she was responsible enough to follow it up with some water to stay hydrated. She wanted to keep her head about her, so she wouldn't forget a single moment. This was such an amazing night.
"Nah, after everything, I've learned life's too short to hold a grudge, you know?" she explained to him. Being a survivor of the Blip and seeing the world have to relearn how to exist without half its population had changed her irrevocably. It taught Darcy what a survivor she was, and how she wasn't going to live her life passively. "You're different from before. I can tell that right away. You're not just doing things for the glory. Or to piss Thor off."
"I won't argue that I'm not different. But you'd be foolish to think I won't still do certain things for the glory. Or to piss off Thor." He responded with a chuckle. "I am by no means 'tamed'"
"What would you do for glory?" she asked him with a raised brow. Darcy was intrigued to hear what the Loki of today would get up to. From what she'd seen so far, he was pretty tame compared to a decade ago. He was actually really wonderful company, and he had a wicked sense of humor she enjoyed. Of course, he was quick to reminder that he wasn't tamed at all. Maybe better behaved was a more apt way of describing it.
"It depends, but generally things that benefit my people now-a-days." Loki actually did a lot of work on behalf of his people that involved no glory. Specifically because he was working in things that were intelligence related. "I can't say I'm fond of Midgard yet, but our people have been through a lot." Thor had needed the support, and then so had King Valkyrie. Brunhildr had been reluctant to trust Loki, but he'd...proven himself.
These days he was simply applying his penchant for mischief for better ends.
"To be perfectly honest, if I told you most of what I did, I'd have to kill you. And that would cause an international incident, even if only a minor one. And not please Her Majesty." Entirely straight-faced.
"You would not!" Darcy protested laughingly. It wasn't even the alcohol talking though her eyes were a little brighter than normal. When she drank, she was also far more tactile, so she playfully bumped her shoulder against his before her hand rested on it with a squeeze. "I think you'd miss me too much if you killed me. Who'd give you all the Midgard sass?" she pointed out cheekily.
Their plates were taken away as the dessert course was brought out. She was already so full, but she wasn't going to pass it up. "What's your favorite thing about Midgard? There has to be something," she wondered.
Loki simply smiled enigmatically in answer to her teasing. Allowing the shoulder bump, and her hand. Surprised somewhat by the affection, although he was inwardly quite pleased with it. He was private, but had always enjoyed physical affection when he had it. "The food, honestly. The sheer variety you have on Midgard is rather amazing."
"Yeah? What's your favorite dish?" she wondered, immediately intrigued. Darcy liked the similarity between them. Here she was, marveling over Asgardian cuisine while he has a fondness for the food found here on Earth. It made her want to take him to try all of her favorite things to see how he liked them. Or even the weirder stuff that were less common. She grabbed her dessert spoon and did a happy dance in her chair for the dessert placed before her. "Pizza? Tacos?" she threw out as she tried to guess.
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baggyeyes
(no subject)
Date: 2022-08-29 12:15 pm (UTC)Quietly, she reached out and placed her hand on his arm. She gave it a soft squeeze to offer her comfort and empathy. "You've really been through it," she remarked lightly. She patted his arm before withdrawing her hand to give him space. She went for levity as she joked, "Now you're stuck being my tour guide."
(no subject)
Date: 2022-08-29 01:18 pm (UTC)"I've wandered some, but when I return it is always to New Asgard. When I am around, I am expected to have official duties. I am still a Prince, even if Asgard proper is no more." And he was rightful king of Jotunheim, for what little that mattered. "I've had two reactions when I've met people--those who are wary, and those who are in awe."
It would not be a very long drive, before they were arriving on the outskirts. The scenery was beautiful, and in the distance on the coast, the Statesman could be made out easily. Framing the picturesque village that had become a blend of ancient and new, while maintaining a classic Scandinavian flair and style.
(no subject)
Date: 2022-08-29 03:16 pm (UTC)"So people are either cautious or awed by you. Which do you prefer?" she asked. Darcy didn't take her eyes off the sight before her. "What other duties do you have besides showing the new kid around?"
(no subject)
Date: 2022-08-29 03:26 pm (UTC)"I sit on, and am part of the King's council. I've had my services sought out by a few other governments, though they often are wary of me as well. On a personal level I work at preserving history."
(no subject)
Date: 2022-08-29 03:57 pm (UTC)They turned in to the main road of New Asgard. The leaves had changed here. It made it all look so picturesque. There was a chill in the air that would make Darcy wish she had her coat.
(no subject)
Date: 2022-08-29 04:15 pm (UTC)As they passed people it was clear the city was a blend of old and new. Even the styles had started to reflect the blending of Asgard and Midgard, though there was still a marked leaning towards Midgardian styles. Darcy would have no trouble finding a fall and winter wardrobe if she wanted, provided she could afford it.
The car itself drove up to the Statesman, where the entry ramp was permanently extended down now. Asgardian designs had been painted around it, runic designs interspersed with nature motifs. As soon as the car stopped, and Loki was out, then it was clear their presence was known. A male was coming down the ship's gangplank towards them, wearing what was meant to be some kind of livery-uniform, over a mix of Asgardian and Midgardian clothing. He resembled a more lanky version of Thor with a longer-beard that was braided, as was his hair.
"Bjarte" Loki greeted as he moved around to Darcy's door, while the other man moved to the trunk for Darcy's suitcase. "Please take Dr Lewis's things to the Gríðrstofa suite." She'd be getting a short tour first, then shown to where she'd be staying.
(no subject)
Date: 2022-08-30 12:13 pm (UTC)"Hi!" she greeted the man with a cheery wave. He took her luggage and greeted her with a nod. "How do you say that again?" she asked to Loki. She was still trying to wrap her tongue around the Norse language. "Slowly, please, so I can get it right. Grio-what? What does it mean?"
She was a flurry of questions and energy. Her curiosity was insatiable.
(no subject)
Date: 2022-08-30 12:36 pm (UTC)"Du alt annet enn vibrerer som en kolibri, so I think it fits rather well."
(no subject)
Date: 2022-08-31 12:23 am (UTC)(no subject)
Date: 2022-08-31 12:41 am (UTC)"We'll start with a general tour of the Statesman. That will end at your room, where you'll have a bit of time to settle in before there's an official state-dinner. Normally Their Majesty isn't nearly so formal, but you're not the only guest staying with us and we've only been waiting on your arrival. Wear something very nice, but not scandalous--if you'd wear it on the red carpet, but be called 'classy' or 'elegant' it would probably work." Giving her the general information, then a look up and down as if assessing.
"Then again, if you have no such outfit, we can provide you with one."
(no subject)
Date: 2022-08-31 01:56 pm (UTC)"Ooh, like something pretty and Asgardian?" she asked hopefully. Darcy hadn't packed too many fine clothes for special occasions. She hadn't thought she needed it. Her wardrobe was mostly casual clothes or durable clothes for sightseeing and hiking. She let Loki lead the way to give the tour. "Who else is going to be at this fancy dinner? Anyone I know?"
(no subject)
Date: 2022-08-31 02:02 pm (UTC)"We'd planned to go with Midgardian business and evening-wear as the theme, but as you can see--" Gesturing around them before starting to lead her up into the Statesman. "The two styles have been blending. Mostly because what Asgardian clothing we have has been literally whatever was packed in a hurry, or off our backs." Inside the ship was impressive--this was clearly the main hub of information and activity.
"Their Majesty King Valkyrie will be there, and you'll be introduced to Heimdall. He guarded our borders and had stewardship over the Bifrost for centuries." Just in case she had no idea who Heimdall was, and didn't know her Norse myths. "Beyond that, I don't think it likely. Some visiting dignitaries from Norway, Finland, Sweden currently, as well as a few other scientists."
(no subject)
Date: 2022-08-31 02:31 pm (UTC)Sure enough, Loki escorted her to dinner, and they're seated together. She was relieved by that which surprised her. She was enjoying his company. He translated for her and explained the different courses. Darcy interjected into the conversation here and there, but mostly, she was happy to take it all in. She sipped at her wine and sighed.
"This wine is fantastic," she murmured to her companion. "Is it made around here?"
(no subject)
Date: 2022-08-31 02:47 pm (UTC)Loki was in all black, with a green pocket-scarf and tie, with only accents of gold at the tiepin and cuffs. It made for a striking match with Darcy, as he escorted her and presented her formally to the King and other dignitaries. She was particularly introduced to Heimdall, who was in shades of brown and gold. Most everyone spoke some English, and tried to converse with her in it. If a bit clumsily at times.
The courses were all hearty and filling. Fish was prominent, as were root vegetables and a roast of some kind. Mead was also served, as was plain water for those interested. It was very quickly seen why, in the myths, Loki was 'tolerated'--he was fun at parties.
"I believe it's a recreation of an old recipe, and they're hoping we'll tell them how accurate it is or not."
(no subject)
Date: 2022-09-01 01:11 pm (UTC)She thought she was doing a pretty good job of behaving herself. The food was delicious as the courses were brought out. She loved the fish and the vegetables. It was all so filling and deliciously spiced, but she didn't feel heavy and weighed down from all the food.
Her cheeks were a little flushed from her drink. She was leaning in slightly towards Loki as they conversed. "Is it accurate?" she asked with a raised brow. Naturally, she didn't know the difference, but she was curious if it was.
(no subject)
Date: 2022-09-01 01:16 pm (UTC)"Guess." Loki said, with that grin again. "Why would I give you the easy answers? It's more fun to leave you guessing." There was that mischief again.
(no subject)
Date: 2022-09-02 12:35 pm (UTC)She didn't think that they'd be able to recreate Asgardian recipes one hundred percent with earthly ingredients. They'd probably come close, but it likely still missed the mark. "Sorry you're stuck being my babysitter and translator tonight, but I appreciate it. I'm having a really good time."
(no subject)
Date: 2022-09-02 12:55 pm (UTC)As for the other comment, Loki hmm'd and took a drink of some of his own wine. "There are worse duties I could have by far. You could hold a grudge, for example."
(no subject)
Date: 2022-09-05 07:05 pm (UTC)"Nah, after everything, I've learned life's too short to hold a grudge, you know?" she explained to him. Being a survivor of the Blip and seeing the world have to relearn how to exist without half its population had changed her irrevocably. It taught Darcy what a survivor she was, and how she wasn't going to live her life passively. "You're different from before. I can tell that right away. You're not just doing things for the glory. Or to piss Thor off."
(no subject)
Date: 2022-09-05 07:58 pm (UTC)(no subject)
Date: 2022-09-07 09:19 pm (UTC)(no subject)
Date: 2022-09-08 07:38 pm (UTC)These days he was simply applying his penchant for mischief for better ends.
"To be perfectly honest, if I told you most of what I did, I'd have to kill you. And that would cause an international incident, even if only a minor one. And not please Her Majesty." Entirely straight-faced.
(no subject)
Date: 2022-09-10 05:46 pm (UTC)Their plates were taken away as the dessert course was brought out. She was already so full, but she wasn't going to pass it up. "What's your favorite thing about Midgard? There has to be something," she wondered.
(no subject)
Date: 2022-09-14 03:27 am (UTC)(no subject)
Date: 2022-09-15 01:29 pm (UTC)(no subject)
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